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How to Grow Rhubarb

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum)

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Supplies You'll Need

Seed Starting Trays Seed Starting Mix Grow Lights Heat Mat Raised Garden Bed Vegetable Garden Soil Hand Trowel Set Watering Can

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Rheum rhabarbarum
Category vegetable
Days to Maturity 365 days
Starting Method Start Indoors

Growing Requirements

Sun

Full Sun

Water

Regular

Germination

8-21 days

Ready to Grow Rhubarb?

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Companion Planting Guide for Rhubarb

Discover which plants grow well with Rhubarb and which to keep at a distance for a healthier garden →

Seed Saving Guide

Moderate
Open-pollinated — seeds grow true to parent

When to Harvest Seed

Allow flower stalks to develop in early summer. Harvest when seeds in the large seed clusters turn brown.

Processing

Cut dried seed stalks, thresh to release seeds, winnow lightly.

Seed Viability

Up to 3 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.

Pro Tip

Rhubarb seeds don't grow true to variety. For identical plants, propagate by crown division in early spring.

Seed Storage Supplies

Seed Envelopes Mylar Storage Bags Silica Gel Packets Seed Organizer

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Rhubarb Planting Calendar by Zone

Zone 1a Zone 1b Zone 2a Zone 2b Zone 3a Zone 3b Zone 4a Zone 4b Zone 5a Zone 5b Zone 6a Zone 6b Zone 7a Zone 7b Zone 8a Zone 8b Zone 9a Zone 9b Zone 10a Zone 10b Zone 11a Zone 11b Zone 12a Zone 12b Zone 13a

Rhubarb Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Rhubarb? +

Start Rhubarb seeds indoors 8 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 2 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.

How long does Rhubarb take to grow? +

Rhubarb typically matures in about 365 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Rhubarb indoors or direct sow? +

Rhubarb should be started indoors 8 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.

How much sun does Rhubarb need? +

Rhubarb requires full sun to thrive.

How much water does Rhubarb need? +

Rhubarb has regular water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Rhubarb? +

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Rhubarb is rated moderate. Allow flower stalks to develop in early summer. Harvest when seeds in the large seed clusters turn brown. Cut dried seed stalks, thresh to release seeds, winnow lightly.

How long do Rhubarb seeds last in storage? +

Properly dried and stored Rhubarb seeds remain viable for up to 3 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Are Rhubarb seeds open-pollinated? +

Yes — Rhubarb is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.

About Rhubarb

Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) is a popular garden vegetable. It's best started indoors 8 weeks before your last frost date, then transplanted outdoors 2 weeks after the last frost.

Expect your Rhubarb to be ready for harvest in approximately 365 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.